Feasibility Study For Expansion of Victoria Hydropower Station

CHAPTER 5
METEOROLOGY AND HYDROLOGY

Feasibility Study for Expansion of Victoria Hydropower Station
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter 5 Meteorology and Hydrology

5.1 General .................................................................................................................5-1
5.2 Meteorology and Discharge Measurement in the Project Area ............................5-4
5.3 Water Resources Development of the Mahaweli River........................................5-10
5.4 Discharge at Project Site.......................................................................................5-13
5.5 Sedimentation .......................................................................................................5-16
Final Report
i
LIST OF TABLES
Table 5.2-1 List of Rainfall Gauging Station nearby the Project Area .......................5-4
Table 5.4-1 Inflow to Victoria Reservoir ....................................................................5-14
Table 5.4-2 Recorded Inflow Data and Estimated Inflow Data in the Past Studies....5-15
Table 5.5-1 Spill Release Record at Bottom Outlet and Spillway ..............................5-16
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 5.1-1 Isohyet in Monsoon Season .....................................................................5-2

Figure 5.1-2 General Plan of the Mahaweli River Basin .............................................5-3
Figure 5.2-1 Temperature Measured at Kundasale Meteorological Station .................5-5
Figure 5.2-2 Location of Polgolla Diversion Weir .......................................................5-6
Figure 5.2-3 Polgolla Diversion Release Record .........................................................5-6
Figure 5.2-4 Location Map of Rainfall Gauging Station..............................................5-7
Figure 5.2-5(1/2) Monthly Average Rainfall Record Measured at Vicinity of the
Victoria Dam (1/2)...................................................................................5-8
Figure 5.2-5(2/2) Monthly Average Rainfall Record Measured at Vicinity of the
Victoria Dam (2/2)...................................................................................5-9
Figure 5.3-1 Related Organization of DSWRPP ..........................................................5-11
Figure 5.3-2 Dams and Reservoirs in the Mahaweli River Basin ................................5-12
Figure 5.4-1 Water Balance of Victoria and Randenigala System................................5-13
Figure 5.4-2 Inflow to Victoria Reservoir and Spill Release from the Victoria
Dam .........................................................................................................5-14
Figure 5.5-1 Bottom Outlet at Victoria Dam ................................................................5-16
Final Report
ii
Chapter 5 Meteorology and Hydrology
5.1 General
(1) Meteorology
The island of the Sri Lanka belongs to the tropical monsoon climate zone and is influenced by two
monsoons. Seasons in the country consist of southwest monsoon, northeast monsoon, and two
inter monsoon periods which are called intermonsoons. The rainfall pattern is strongly influenced
by the direction of these monsoons. The southwest monsoon takes place from May to September
pouring much rainfall in the southwest part of Sri Lanka. The northeast monsoon takes from
December to February giving precipitation in central part and arid area of north and northeast part
of Sri Lanka.
The land of Sri Lanka is further subdivided to three zones, i.e. the wet zone, intermediate zone, and
dry zone. Wet zone is the area where annual rainfall has more than 2,000 mm. Dry zone is
defined where the annual evaporation exceeds the annual rainfall. Intermediate zone is transition
zone between the wet and the dry zones. The southwest part of Sri Lanka belongs to wet zone,
north and northwest part is in dry zone, and intermediate zone is mainly laid on the central part of
Sri Lanka. The isohyet graph of monsoon and intermonsoon periods are shown in Figure 5.1-1.
There is a central mountainous area above the elevation of 750 m called as the Central Highlands
in the central part of the country. In the Central Highlands, the southwest monsoon gives rainfall
at the southwest part, while the northeast monsoon pours precipitation at northeast part.
The Southwest monsoon period is called as “Yala” season which is from April to August, and, the
northeast monsoon is called as “Maha” season which takes place from September to March.
(2) Climate in the Mahaweli River Basin
The Mahaweli river is originating in the southwest part of the Central Highlands, flowing through
the northeast part of Sri Lanka island, and effluent to the Trincomalee bay. The general plan of
the Mahaweli river basin is shown in Figure 5.1-2. The Mahaweli river basin is the largest in Sri
2
Lanka with the total catchments area of 10,327 km and river length of 335 km. There are many
irrigation tanks and reservoirs located within the Central Highlands and peneplains of the basin to
serve hydropower, irrigation and water supply.
The upstream part of the Mahaweli river basin is subject to southwest monsoon, and the middle
part of the Central Highlands, where the Victoria Dam is located, is influenced by both monsoons.
The downstream part of the basin is dry in southwest monsoon period and receives rainfall
spontaneously in northeast monsoon period.
Final Report
5-1
Source: The National Atlas of Sri Lanka
Figure 5.1-1 Isohyet in Monsoon Season
Final Report
5-2
Figure 5.1-2 General Plan of the Mahaweli River Basin
Final Report
5-3
5.2 Meteorology and Discharge Measurement in the Project Area
(1) Rainfall Measurement
There are eight rainfall gauging stations nearby the project area operated by the Meteorological
Department. At the hydropower stations of the Victoria and the Randenigala, CEB also measures
the rainfall. The list of the rainfall stations and locations of the rainfall stations are shown in Table
5.2-1 and Figure 5.2-4, respectively.
Table 5.2-1 List of Rainfall Gauging Station nearby the Project Area
Sta. No. Station Name Latitude Longitude
Rainfall gauging station operated by Meteological Department
M146 GALPHELA 07 21 13 80 42 14
M191 HOPE ESTATE 07 06 31 80 44 20
M238 KANDAKETIYA 07 10 20 81 00 25
M283 KOBANELLA 07 21 15 80 50 21
M470 DELTOTA 07 10 04 80 41 52
M631 WOODSIDE ESTATE 07 15 52 80 49 39
KUNDASALE 07 16 12 80 40 48
MAHABERIYATENNA -DIGANA 07 16 12 80 45 36
Rainfall gauging station at dam site
VICTORIA 07 15 00 80 46 48
RANDENIGALA 07 12 07 80 53 33
Source: Department of Meteorology, Sri Lanka
The monthly average rainfall measured at rainfall stations is shown in Figure 5.2-5. According to
the record, the average annual rainfall at the Victoria dam is 1,375 mm. In general, the middle of
the Central Highlands where the Victoria Dam is located is in the intermediate zone and is subject
to both monsoons. However, according to the rainfall records, the project area receives more
rainfall in the northeast monsoon period than that in southwest period.
There is a meteorological measurement station, the Kundasale meteorological station, located

adjacent to the Victoria Hydropower Station. The monthly mean, maximum and minimum
temperatures measured at the Kundasale station is shown in Figure 5.2-1. The annual mean
temperature of the station is 25.1ºC with small variation through the year. The monthly maximum
temperature varies from 29 to 32ºC. The monthly minimum temperature varies from 18 to 22ºC.
Final Report
5-4
Monthly Temperature at Kundasale

35
Temperature (Celsius degree)

30
25
20
15 Maximum
10 Minimum
Mean
5
0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Month
Figure 5.2-1 Temperature Measured at Kundasale Meteorological Station
(2) Discharge Measurement
The Polgolla diversion weir is located 20 km upstream of the Victoria Dam. The part of flow of
the Mahaweli river is diverted to the Sudu river, a tributary of the Mahaweli river, at the weir for
irrigation purpose. The released water from the weir to the downstream is flowing into the
Victoria reservoir. Therefore, the inflow to the Victoria reservoir depends on the release from the
Polgolla diversion weir. The weir is operated, and discharge data of the weir are managed by
MASL. According to the records from 1985 to 2006, the average annual volume of inflow to the
Polgolla weir is 1,949 MCM, annual average of 878 MCM was diverted to the Sudu river and the
rest of 1,071 MCM is released to the Mahaweli river. The location of the Polgolla weir is shown
in Figure 5.2-2, and the release record from 1985 to 2006 at the Polgolla weir is shown in Figure
5.2-3.
Final Report
5-5
Legend
River
Arterial road
Road
Powerhouse
Polgolla diversion tunnel
Polgolla weir
Kandy
Victoria reservoir
Randenigala reservoir
Victoria PS Randenigala PS
Figure 5.2-2 Location of Polgolla Diversion Weir
Polgolla Diversion Release Record

800
700
Volume (MCM/month)
600
500
400
300
200
100
-
1985
1986
1987
1988
1989
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
Year
Source: MASL
Figure 5.2-3 Polgolla Diversion Release Record
Final Report
5-6
5-7
Final Report
Figure 5.2-4 Location Map of Rainfall Gauging Station

Monthly Average Rainfall at GALPHELE (M146) Monthly Average Rainfall at HOPE ESTATE
(M191)
Annual Total: 2124 mm Annual Total: 2716 mm
700 700
600 600
500 500
Rainfall (mm)
Rainfall (mm)
400 400
300 300
200 200
100
100
0
0
l
ar
n
n
ov
ec
p
ay
ct
r
Ju
g
Fe
Ap
Ju
Ja
Se
Au
M
b
l
ar
O
n
n
ov
ec
p
ay
ct
r
D
Ju
M
Fe
Ap
Ju
Ja
Se
Au
M
D
M
Month Month
Monthly Average Rainfall at KANDAKETIYA Monthly Average Rainfall at KOBONELLA (M283)

700 (M238) Annual Total: 1875 mm Annual Total: 3476 mm
700
600 600
500 500
Rainfall (mm)
400 Rainfall (mm) 400

300 300
200
200
100
100
0
0
Jul
Jan
Feb
Jun
Oct
Mar
May
Nov
Dec
Sep
Aug
Apr
b
l
ar
n
ov
ec
p
ay
ct
r
Ju
g
Fe
Ap
Ja
Ju
Se
Au
M
O
N
D
M
Month Month
Monthly Average Rainfall at DELTOTA (M470) Monthly Average Rainfall at WOODSIDE ESTATE
Annual Total: 2552 mm (M631) Annual Total: 2295 mm
700 700
600 600
500 500
Rainfall (mm)
Rainfall (mm)
400 400
300 300
200 200
100 100
0 0
Jul
Jan
Feb
Jun
Oct
Mar
May
Nov
Dec
Sep
Aug
Apr
Jul
Jan
Feb
Jun
Oct
Mar
May
Nov
Dec
Sep
Aug
Apr
Month Month
Figure 5.2-5(1/2)
Monthly Average Rainfall Record Measured at Vicinity of the Victoria Dam (1/2)
Final Report
5-8
Monthly Average Rainfall at KUNDASALE Monthly Average Rainfall at MAHABERIYATENNA

Annual Total: 1393 mm -DIGANA Annual Total: 1367 mm
700 700
600 600
500 500
Rainfall (mm)
Rainfall (mm)
400 400
300 300
200 200
100 100
0 0
b
ar
l
n
ov
ec
p
ay
ct
r
Ju
b
Fe
Ap
ar
l
n
ov
ec
Ja
Ju
p
ay
Se
ct
r
Ju
g
Au
M
Fe
Ap
N
Ja
Ju
M
Se
Au
M
O
N
D
M
Month Month
Monthly Average Rainfall at Victoria Dam Monthly Average Rainfall at Randenigala Dam
Annual Total: 1375 mm 700 Annual Total: 1829 mm
700
600 600
500 500
Rainfall (mm)
Rainfall (mm)
400 400
300 300
200 200
100 100
0 0
Jul
Jan
Feb
Jun
Oct
Mar
May
Nov
Dec
Sep
Jul
Jan
Feb
Jun
Aug
Oct
Mar
Apr
May
Nov
Dec
Sep
Aug
Apr
Month Month
Figure 5.2-5(2/2)
Monthly Average Rainfall Record Measured at Vicinity of the Victoria Dam (2/2)
Final Report
5-9
5.3 Water Resources Development of the Mahaweli River
(1) Water Resources Plan of the Mahaweli River
The master plan of the Mahaweli river development was prepared as the “Mahaweli Ganga
Development Project” under UNDP/FAO assistantship in 1968. The master plan involved
development of 365,000 ha irrigation area and development of 500 MW of hydropower. The Sri
Lankan government commenced to undertake the development scheme in 1968 according to the
master plan. In 1977, the master plan was revised, and “Accelerated Mahaweli Development
Programme” (AMDP) was issued. AMDP recommended developing 204,000 ha of irrigation
area and 470 MW of hydropower with five large dams (Kotmale, Victoria, Randenigala, Maduru
Oya, Moragahakanda). In early 1980s, the Sri Lankan government undertook the construction of
the four dams, which are Kotmale dam, Victoria dam, Randenigala dam, and Maduru Oya dam.
The operation rule of the Mahaweli river basin water resources facilities after completion of the
above dams were determined in the study “Mahaweli Water Resources Management Project” in
1985 under Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) assistantship. This study
recommended the operation rule of principal reservoirs such as the Victoria reservoir in the
Mahaweli river basin.
The current reservoirs and irrigation tanks are laid as a series of cascade on the Mahaweli river.
The current water resources facilities in the Mahaweli river are shown in Figure 5.3-2.
The water resources management of the Mahaweli river will be reviewed in the study on the “Dam
Safety and Water Resources Planning Project” (DSWRPP) under the World Bank assistantship.
The project has been undertaken since 2008. The outline of the DSWRPP is described in the next
section.
(2) Dam Safety and Water Resources Planning Project (DSWRPP)
DSWRPP is the project assisted by the World Bank and consists of the following four components.
- Component 1: Dam Safety and Operational Efficiency (US$52 million)

- Component 2: Hydro-meteorological Information System (US$8 million)
- Component 3: Multi-sectoral Water Resources Planning (US$6.5 million)
- Component 4: Project Management and Monitoring (US$5.5 million)
The total project cost is US$72 million in which US$66 million is financed by the World Bank and
the rest of US$6 million is funded by the Sri Lankan government.
Component 1 consists of the rehabilitation of the existing 32 large dams in Sri Lanka. For the
Victoria dam, the component will examine rehabilitation of the dam operating facilities and
evaluation of dam structure behavior using measurement data recorded by the monitoring
instruments in the dam body. Component 2 involves establishing hydrological information
system, and component 3 will review and revise the water resources management in the principal
river in Sri Lanka. Component 4 is operation and coordination of the DSWRPP components.
Final Report
5-10
The study of the component 3 may affect the operation of the Victoria reservoir. The main
scheme of component 3 is to develop national water-use plan for rivers other than the Mahaweli
river and optimization of water resources of the Mahaweli river for preparation of “New Mahaweli
Water Resources Development Plan.” The national water-use plan will be developed under
supervision by Department of Irrigation, and the optimization study on the Mahaweli river will be
supervised by MASL. The review of the water management of the Mahaweli river basin will
include assessment of the operation policy for the diversion at the Polgolla weir.
The principal authorities involved in the DSWRPP are; Water Resources Board, Department of
Irrigation, National Water Supply and Drainage Board, Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka (MASL)
and CEB. Among these five authorities, four authorities except Water Resources Board have their
own dams. Each authority will supervise construction works on their dams.
The coordination of the project within DSWRPP scheme is made by Project Management Unit
(PMU) under the Ministry of Agriculture Development and Agrarian Services. PMU is
responsible for giving project guideline to the entities, procurement of consultants and materials,
and reporting progress to the World Bank. PMU office is located in the MASL building, however,
PMU is independent to MASL. Organization of the DWSRPP is shown in Figure 5.3-1.
Ministry of Agriculture
Ministry of Irrigation and Water Ministry of Water Supply Ministry of Power
Development and Agrarian
Management and Drainage and Energy
Services
National Water CEB

Water Resources Supply and Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka
Department of
Board Drainage Board
Irrigation
(dealing ground water) (NWS&DB)
: Ministry
: Participant Authorities for DSWRPP

DSWRPP: PMU
(Project Management Unit)
Source: Project Management Unit, DSWRPP
Figure 5.3-1 Related Organization of DSWRPP
Regarding the water resources development plan of the Mahaweli river, “New Mahaweli Water
Resources Development Plan”, a schedule as of late February 2009 is as follows;
- Selection of consultant will finish after two months

- The development plan will be prepared two years after commencement (completed in late
April 2011)
Final Report
5-11
KOTMALE OYA
MAHAWELI GANGA Legend

Legend
Upper Kotmale Res Upper Kotmale PS
(0.8 MCM)
: Dam with hydropower
(150 MW)
KotmaleRes.
(172.6 MCM) Kotmale PS : Dam (planned or under construction)
(201 MW)
Moragolla Moragolla PS
Pond : Dam (irrigation purpose only)
(27 MW)
Polgolla Barrage
Ukuwela PS
(1.2 MCM)
SUDU GANGA (38 MW)
Victoria Res. DAMBULU OYA
Victoria PS
(721.2 MCM) Bowatenna Res Kandalama
(210 MW) Kalawawa
(49.9 MCM) BowatennaPS
Randenigala Res. (SystemH,MH,IM)
(875.0 MCM) (40 MW)
Elahera
UMA OYA Randenigala PS
5-12
(122 MW) Angamedilla (System G) Minneriya Giritale

Uma Oya Res. (System D1) (System D1)
Parakrama Samudraya
Uma Oya PS (System D2)
(15 MW)
Rantambe Pond KantaleTank
Rantambe PS
(21.0 MCM) (49 MW) (System D1)
AMBAN GANGA
Minipe KaudullaTank
(Left Bank) (System D1)
(Right
(System E)
Ulhitiya
(System C)
(System A) MAHAWELI GANGA
Rathkinda
(System C)
Maduru Oya
(System B)
Final Report
Source: CEB
Figure 5.3-2 Dams and Reservoirs in the Mahaweli River Basin
5.4 Discharge at Project Site

The inflow to the Victoria reservoir is a total of the release at Polgolla weir and inflow from the
residual basin between the Polgolla weir and the Victoria dam. The inflow from the residual
basin is not measured, but it can be estimated by the difference between the total discharge from
the Victoria dam and release at the Polgolla weir.
The water balance of the Victoria reservoir is shown in Figure 5.4-1. According to the discharge
data from 1985 to 2006, Polgolla weir received 1,949 MCM of water annually, and 878 MCM was
diverted to the Sudu river and the rest of 1,071 MCM is released to downstream and flowing to the
Victoria reservoir. While, the total annual discharge at the Victoria reservoir was 1,532 MCM.
The difference between the Polgolla weir release and the total release at the Victoria dam is the
inflow from the residual basin. The difference is 461 MCM (= 1,532 MCM – 1,071 MCM) and is
the annual inflow volume from the residual basin (the estimation method is attached to
Appendix-II).
1,949 MCM/year
To the Sudu river

Polgolla diversion 878 MCM/year
1,071 MCM/year 461 MCM / year
Victoria Dam
1,532 MCM/year 396 MCM/year
Randenigala Dam
1,928 MCM/year
Figure 5.4-1 Water Balance of Victoria and Randenigala System
Of 1,532 MCM of the total annual discharge, 178 MCM per annum was released from spillway or
bottom outlet. The inflow and discharge record of the spillway or bottom outlet is shown in
Figure 5.4-2. The monthly inflow into the Victoria reservoir is tabulated in Table 5.4-1. The rest
of 1,354 MCM/year was used for the hydropower generation and is equivalent to 42.9 m3/s.
Final Report
5-13
Inflow and spill release

900 -
800 100
200
Inflow (MCM/month)
700
(MCM/month)
Spill release
600 300
400
500
500
400
600
300 700
200 800
100 900
- 1,000
1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006
Year
Source: Victoria Dam Operation Office, MASL
Figure 5.4-2 Inflow to Victoria Reservoir and Spill Release from the Victoria Dam
Table 5.4-1 Inflow to Victoria Reservoir

（Unit: MCM)
YEAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC TOTAL
1985 72 30 31 31 117 789 464 168 45 227 347 133 2454

1986 395 149 150 209 118 61 51 183 229 418 252 51 2266
1987 42 17 14 32 59 74 64 77 255 404 266 90 1394
1988 22 17 37 135 73 82 254 323 396 201 259 95 1895
1989 88 22 17 20 74 339 630 305 247 225 417 118 2503
1990 208 51 46 18 117 127 121 109 51 109 153 121 1233
1991 136 34 26 26 19 131 59 44 44 141 115 163 939
1992 87 39 18 36 55 105 211 243 150 194 235 164 1535
1993 40 23 18 17 115 347 279 99 23 229 297 334 1822
1994 224 157 40 40 43 36 36 102 96 307 410 237 1728
1995 87 75 36 122 334 244 77 95 157 290 277 75 1867
1996 48 44 24 104 24 90 103 115 229 308 129 95 1314
1997 23 18 21 83 142 40 81 62 240 277 375 263 1625
1998 116 40 33 20 34 60 123 126 157 206 102 108 1124
1999 240 85 77 106 113 335 68 39 56 102 91 91 1404
2000 90 150 97 96 33 72 48 170 93 132 104 100 1183
2001 123 93 36 94 48 38 100 70 90 183 105 128 1109
2002 62 32 24 148 97 82 38 80 92 91 184 142 1073
2003 132 64 115 114 126 23 62 120 109 37 41 20 963
2004 25 17 22 67 89 133 130 93 103 159 150 228 1215
2005 75 68 30 38 41 39 49 34 161 121 295 160 1112
2006 166 78 117 91 86 98 139 54 87 161 631 239 1948
Average 114 59 47 75 89 152 145 123 141 206 238 143 1532
[Supplementary]
The discharge data at the Polgolla diversion and at the Victoria dam provided by MASL were
recorded with the actual operation from 1985 to 2006. Therefore, the discharge data given by the
MASL is credible for using in the Study.
Final Report
5-14
While there were studies in which the inflow to the Polgolla diversion and that to Victoria reservoir
were estimated with a certain method besides actual discharge records in the Mahaweli River.
Those studies were “Victoria Scheme Mahaweli Development Project Phase I Pre-F/S” in 1978,
and “Mahaweli Water Resources Management Project” in 1985.
The average of the estimated inflow at the Poglolla and at the Victoria dam is summarized below.
Table 5.4-2 Recorded Inflow Data and Estimated Inflow Data in the Past Studies
Quantity
Studies Data source
(MCM/year)
Victoria Expansion F/S, JICA (2008)
Inflow at Polgolla Diversion 1,949 Operation record given by MASL.
Diversion at Polgolla 878 - ditto -
Incremental flow at Victoria 461 461 = 1532 – (1949 – 878)
Total Inflow into Victoria Reservoir 1,532 Operation record given by MASL.
Mahaweli Water Resources Management Project, CIDA (1985)
Inflow at Polgolla Diversion 2,141 Data measured and estimated by NEDECO (1979)
Diversion at Polgolla 947 Operation record
Incremental flow at Victoria 784 Estimated (method unknown)
Total Inflow into Victoria Reservoir 1,978 1978 = 2141 – 947 + 784
Victoria Scheme Mahaweli Development Project Phase I Pre-F/S, UK (1978)
Inflow at Polgolla Diversion 2,294 Measured data and estimated by multivariate lag-one
Markov model.
Diversion at Polgolla n/a Diversion quantity was not stated because the study
of diversion quantity was out of scope in the study.
Incremental flow at Victoria 1,026 1026 = 3320 – 2294
Total Inflow into Victoria Reservoir 3,320 This figure is before deducting the diversion quantity
at Polgolla weir.
As shown in the table above, the averages of the estimated inflow in the both studies are larger than
that of measured data. Further, the details and assumption of the hydrological studies to derive
the inflow data set is unknown. Therefore the data sets presented in the past studies are not used
in the Study and the discharge record from 1985 to 2006 given by MASL is used.
Final Report
5-15
5.5 Sedimentation
The bottom outlet is provided in the dam body to discharge sediments in the reservoir. The
location of the bottom outlet is shown in Figure 5.5-1. The bottom outlet is opened before
opening spillway gates during flood operation. According to the dam operation office, the
discharging operation usually takes 2 to 3 hours, until the color of the water changes from brown to
normal water color, and the bottom outlet is closed. The annual record of discharge from the
bottom outlet is shown in Table 5.5-1.
Bottom Outlet
Figure 5.5-1 Bottom Outlet at Victoria Dam
Table 5.5-1 Spill Release Record at Bottom Outlet and Spillway

Bottom Outlet Spillway
Release release
MCM MCM
1987 0.00 0.00
1988 0.00 104.00
1989 0.00 878.00
1990 0.00 61.00
1991 0.00 0.00
1992 0.00 0.00
1993 0.48 620.00
1994 7.89 424.00
1995 95.14 108.00
1996 1.22 0.00
1997 0.00 141.00
1998 0.03 3.97
1999 0.00 0.00
2000 0.00 0.00
2001 0.00 0.00
2002 0.00 0.00
2003 0.00 0.00
2004 0.00 0.00
2005 0.00 0.00
2006 1.27 288.99
2007 0.01 0.00
Average 5.05 125.19
Final Report
5-16
As shown in Table 5.5-1, the quantity of the discharge from the bottom outlet is relatively small
compared to the reservoir capacity, except 95.14 MCM was released from the bottom outlet in
1995.
According to the dam operation office, sedimentation in the reservoir is not an issue for dam
operation. The sedimentation level was surveyed after the construction of Victoria dam and it
was confirmed that sedimentation volume in 1995 (10 years after completion) was 1.1% of total
reservoir volume. In 2005, the sedimentation of the large reservoirs including the Victoria was
briefly examined. The report concluded that the sedimentation in the Victoria reservoir was not
significant and no additional countermeasures were needed. Therefore, the sedimentation will be
relatively small compared with the reservoir capacity, thus it will not affect the expansion project.
Final Report
5-17
CHAPTER 6
OPTIMIZATION OF THE DEVELOPMENT PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter 6 Optimization of the Development Plan

6.1 Comparison Study of Alternative Options............................................................6-1
6.1.1 Alternative Options..................................................................................6-1
6.1.2 Comparison Method ................................................................................6-4
6.1.3 Peak Duration ..........................................................................................6-6
6.1.4 Scale of Expansion ..................................................................................6-10
6.1.5 Definition of Components of Each Option ..............................................6-12
6.1.6 Power Generation Simulation..................................................................6-21
6.1.7 Geological Conditions .............................................................................6-29
6.1.8 Construction Planning .............................................................................6-30
6.1.9 Environmental and Social Considerations ...............................................6-33
6.1.10 Benefit and Cost Analysis (B/C Analysis) ...............................................6-33
6.1.11 Study Using WASP-IV ............................................................................6-41
6.1.12 Result of Comparative Study ...................................................................6-48
6.2 Optimization of Expansion Plan...........................................................................6-48
6.2.1 Number of Units and Unit Capacity ........................................................6-49
6.2.2 Normal Intake Water Level......................................................................6-55
6.2.3 Operation Priority between the Existing and Expansion Units ...............6-58
6.2.4 Optimal Expansion Plan ..........................................................................6-59
6.2.5 Maximum Possible Power Generation ....................................................6-60
Final Report
i
LIST OF TABLES
Table 6.1.3-1 Maximum Demand ..................................................................................6-6

Table 6.1.4-1 Study Scenarios........................................................................................6-12
Table 6.1.5-1 Tunnel Length of Each Option ................................................................6-13
Table 6.1.5-2 Randenigala Reservoir Water Level ........................................................6-14
Table 6.1.5-3 Head Loss of Each Option .......................................................................6-17
Table 6.1.5-4 Effective Head of Each Option ................................................................6-17
Table 6.1.6-1 Data Used for Simulation Study ..............................................................6-28
Table 6.1.6-2 Annual Energy and Power Output ...........................................................6-29
Table 6.1.8-1 New Access Tunnel and New Access Road.............................................6-30
Table 6.1.8-2 Construction Period and Period of Drawdown of Randenigala
Reservoir..................................................................................................6-30
Table 6.1.10-1 Economic Data Used for B/C Analysis....................................................6-34
Table 6.1.10-2 Project Construction Cost for Each Option .............................................6-35
Table 6.1.10-3 Operation Rule during Construction........................................................6-36
Table 6.1.10-4 Reduction of Annual Energy during Construction...................................6-36
Table 6.1.10-5 Pump-up Cost of Pumped Storage Option...............................................6-37
Table 6.1.10-6 Summary of the Project Cost ...................................................................6-38
Table 6.1.10-7 Annualized Project Cost of Each Option .................................................6-39
Table 6.1.10-8 Summary of Benefits for Each Option ....................................................6-40
Table 6.1.10-9 Unit Construction Cost of Alternative Options........................................6-41
Table 6.1.10-10 Summary of B/C Analysis .......................................................................6-41
Table 6.1.11-1 WASP-IV Input Data for Basic and Downstream Options ......................6-43
Table 6.1.11-2 WASP-IV Input Data for Pumped Storage Option ..................................6-43
Table 6.1.11-3 Cost of Each Option on WASP-IV Result ...............................................6-44
Table 6.1.11-4 Difference of Costs of Basic Option and Other Options .........................6-44
Table 6.1.11-5 Power Development Plan of Basic Option ..............................................6-45
Table 6.1.11-6 Power Development Plan of Downstream Option...................................6-46
Table 6.1.11-7 Power Development Plan of Pumped Storage Option .............................6-46
Table 6.1.11-8 Annual Energy of Pumped Storage Option..............................................6-47
Table 6.1.11-9 Operation Time of Pumped Storage Generation ......................................6-47
Table 6.1.12-1 Summary of Comparative Study..............................................................6-48
Table 6.2.1-1 Acceptable Sudden System Outage Capacities for Future ......................6-51
Table 6.2.1-2 Annual Energy and Dependable Capacity of Each Option......................6-53
Table 6.2.1-3 Annualized Benefit for Each Option .......................................................6-54
Table 6.2.1-4 Project Cost of Each Option ....................................................................6-55
Table 6.2.1-5 Result of B/C Analysis.............................................................................6-55
Table 6.2.2-1 Examined Normal Intake Water Level.....................................................6-56
Table 6.2.2-2 Annual Energy and Dependable Capacity for Each Normal Intake
Water Level..............................................................................................6-57
Table 6.2.2-3 Annualized Benefit of Each Normal Intake Water Level ........................6-57
Table 6.2.2-4 Project Cost for Each Normal Water Level Option .................................6-57
Table 6.2.2-5 B/C for Each Normal Water Level Option...............................................6-58
Final Report
ii
Table 6.2.3-1 Annual Energy and Dependable Capacity for Each Alternative Rule .....6-59
Table 6.2.3-2 Annualized Benefit of Each Normal Intake Water Level ........................6-59
Table 6.2.3-3 B/C for Each Operation Priority Option ..................................................6-59
Table 6.2.5-1 Annual Energy and Dependable Capacity when the Spilled
Discharge is not Deducted .......................................................................6-60
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 6.1.1-1 General Plan of Alternative Options........................................................6-3

Figure 6.1.2-1 Flow Chart of Comparative Study for Alternative Options .....................6-5
Figure 6.1.3-1 Maximum Demand ..................................................................................6-7
Figure 6.1.3-2 Daily Load Curve (2003/12/17 & 2006/5/15) .........................................6-7
Figure 6.1.3-3 Load Duration Curve (2003/12/17 & 2005/5/21) ....................................6-8
Figure 6.1.3-4 Annual Load Duration Curve in 2007 .....................................................6-9
Figure 6.1.4-1 Mass Curve Analysis for the Victoria Hydropower .................................6-10
Figure 6.1.4-2 Firm Discharge and Maximum Plant Discharge for Existing and
Expansion Plants......................................................................................6-11
Figure 6.1.5-4 Gross Head of Basic Option ....................................................................6-15
Figure 6.1.5-5 Gross Head of Downstream Option.........................................................6-16
Figure 6.1.5-6 Gross Head of Pumped Storage Option ...................................................6-16
Figure 6.1.5-1 Basic Option: General Plan and Profile...................................................6-18
Figure 6.1.5-2 Downstream Option: General Plan and Profile .......................................6-19
Figure 6.1.5-3 Pumped Storage Option: General Plan and Profile..................................6-20
Figure 6.1.6-1 Optimal Rule Curve Suggested in “Mahaweli Water Resources
Management Project” ..............................................................................6-21
Figure 6.1.6-2 Operation Rule Curve of the Victoria Reservoir from April to
September in 2008 ...................................................................................6-22
Figure 6.1.6-3 Network Model of the Victoria and Randenigala System........................6-23
Figure 6.1.6-4 DP Result: Reservoir Volume Fluctuation ...............................................6-25
Figure 6.1.6-5 Reservoir Storage Volume Boundaries ....................................................6-26
Figure 6.1.6-6 Storage Zone of the Victoria Reservoir....................................................6-26
Figure 6.1.8-1 Downstream Option: Access Road and Adit............................................6-31
Figure 6.1.8-2 Pumped Storage Option: Access Road and Adit......................................6-32
Figure 6.1.10-1 Water Balance Simulation Model ............................................................6-35
Figure 6.2.1-1 Daily Load Curve in 2006 .......................................................................6-50
Figure 6.2.1-2 Daily Load Curve in 2007 .......................................................................6-51
Figure 6.2.2-1 Normal Intake Water Level in the Comparative Study ............................6-56
Figure 6.2.2-2 Frequency of Reservoir Water Level .......................................................6-56
Figure 6.2.2-3 Relation of B/C and Normal Intake Water Level.....................................6-58
Final Report
iii
Chapter 6 Optimization of the Development Plan
The objective of the optimization of the development plan is to select the best option among the
alternative options, and to optimize the capacity and number of units, and to determine the normal
intake water level for the selected option. In this chapter, the methodology, procedure and result
of the comparative study of the alternative options are described in Section 6.1, and the
optimization of expansion plan is described in Section 6.2.
6.1 Comparison Study of Alternative Options

The expansion of the Victoria Hydropower Station is composed of a headrace tunnel, a surge tank,
penstock(s), and a powerhouse. The water intake was already constructed for the purpose of
future expansion of the hydropower facilities during the construction of the existing Victoria dam
and hydropower station completed in 1985. One possible option of expansion plan is simply to
place these components nearby the existing hydropower facilities, so as referred to as “Basic
Option” in the Study. Besides this “Basic Option”, following additional two alternatives are
envisaged and examined in the Study.
a) To install expansion powerhouse further downstream of the existing powerhouse to increase

an effective head (downstream option), and
b) To install pumped storage power station using the Victoria reservoir as an upper reservoir and
the Randenigala reservoir as a lower reservoir (pumped storage option).
The comparison study of alternative options is to evaluate each option and to select the best option
among the three candidate options.
6.1.1 Alternative Options
(1) Basic Option
The basic option is to place an expansion powerhouse nearby the existing hydropower
facilities.
(2) Downstream Option
The downstream option is to place the surface type powerhouse 2 km downstream from the
existing powerhouse. Placing the powerhouse in the downstream expects to gain an
additional hydraulic head for hydropower generation.
The location of the powerhouse is selected by avoiding expansion plant from being placed on
deposited material which is described in Section 7.2. Study Team also examined the
scenario in which places the new powerhouse in 1 km downstream from the existing
powerhouse. This scenario selected underground type powerhouse to avoid deposit material.
This underground type and surface type downstream option are compared, and the detail of
the comparison study is given in Appendix-II.
Final Report
6-1
(3) Pumped Storage Option
The pumped storage option is the pumped storage power plant, using total head of 190 m
between the Victoria and the Randenigala reservoirs.
General plan of the alternative options are shown in Figure 6.1.1-1.
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6-2
General Plan of Alternative Options
Figure 6.1.1-1
Final Report
6-3
6.1.2 Comparison Method
To formulate the optimum plan among each alternative, Study Team considers (1) economic aspect,
(2) construction aspect, and (3) environmental impacts as considered for a feasibility study on
hydropower projects.
(1) Economic Aspect
Benefit (B) is annual cost calculated form construction and Operation & Maintenance (O&M)
costs of an alternative thermal plant, and cost (C) is annual cost calculated from construction
and O&M costs of the new hydropower facilities. The optimal option is determined as that
with the maximum B/C.
(2) Construction Aspect
By recognizing the constraints of each alternative, Study Team examines the construction
methods for each option and economical impacts to the region due to the limitation of water
supply for irrigation and potable water in downstream during construction, if any.
(3) Environmental Impact
Study Team recognizes impacts on the natural and social environment for all alternatives and
their countermeasures.
The flow chart of the comparative study is delineated in Figure 6.1.2-1.
Final Report
6-4
Inflow Data to Victoria

Reservoir
Mass Curve Analysis Roles of Power Sation
Peak hour Electricity Demand
Review Firm discharge
- WASP study
Determine Max. Discharge for 2 units - System frequency deviation
and 3 units generators for Basic - Power demand
Option/Downstream Option
Basic Option Downstream Pumped-storage

Option Option
- Reservoir operation record

- Water management plan
Revise Operation Rule of Victoria and Randenigala Reservoir by DP of the Mahaweli river
- Reservoir sedimentation
Confirmation of Location of Outlets
Geological Condition
Energy Calculation by Simulation Study, Get 95 % depandable power output and Average
Annual Energy
Calculate benefit as construction and O&M cost of alternative thermal plant
- Construction Cost
- O&M Cost
- Cost of Environmental impacts
Economic Evaluation by B/C Analysis
Select Optimum Option which gives the largest B/C
Figure 6.1.2-1 Flow Chart of Comparative Study for Alternative Options
Final Report
6-5
6.1.3 Peak Duration
The storage capacity of the existing Victoria reservoir is over 700 MCM, therefore the operation of
the Hydropower Station is possible for both peak or base load.
According to the records of the operation, the Victoria Hydropower Station has been operated not
only for peak load but also for base load. It is confirmed for the Study that the Victoria
Hydropower Station after the expansion is planned to be operated for peak load to cope with
increasing peak demand load in the country.
The equivalent peak duration for the Hydropower Station after expansion is studied based on the
daily and annual load curves.
In general there are two methods to examine equivalent peak duration of a reservoir type
hydropower project; one is from the viewpoint of power demand, and the other is from aspect of
hydropower planning. Because the former is adopted in the Study, the reason why only the former
is adopted is mentioned in Appendix II.
(1) Monthly Records of Peak Load
The power demand records do not have remarkable seasonal changes, but the annual maximum
demand was recorded in April, May, November, or December. Figure 6.1.3-1 shows the peak
power demand increases firmly year by year.
Table 6.1.3-1 and Figure 6.1.3-1 show monthly peak load in 2003 to 2007.
Table 6.1.3-1 Maximum Demand

(Unit: MW)
Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
2003 1,413.9 1,434.9 1,455.8 1,454.9 1,453.6 1,455.6 1,450.0 1,445.8 1,491.3 1,491.7 1,483.6 1,515.6
2004 1,510.1 1,492.5 1,515.4 1,531.6 1,506.5 1,501.8 1,513.4 1,532.7 1,525.6 1,524.0 1,559.9 1,563.4
2005 1,583.8 1,625.5 1,646.1 1,644.7 1,748.2 1,642.1 1,633.4 1,682.8 1,716.1 1,724.9 1,673.0 1,711.2
2006 1,718.1 1,758.0 1,796.7 1,817.6 1,892.5 1,789.8 1,754.1 1,764.6 1,784.9 1,791.6 1,700.7 1,750.5
2007 1,788.1 1,799.6 1,837.1 1,800.6 1,829.6 1,803.5 1,814.6 1,816.9 1,802.6 1,805.9 1,840.1 1,835.3
Source: Monthly Review Report, CEB
Final Report
6-6
2000
1800
1600
Peak Demand (MW)
1400
1200
1000 2003
800 2004
600 2005
400 2006
200 2007
0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Month
Figure 6.1.3-1 Maximum Demand
(2) Daily Load Pattern
The maximum peak load in the past is 1,922 MW recorded in the night on May 21, 2008. Figure
6.1.3-2 shows the daily load curves on December 17, 2003 and May 21, 2008 on which the annual
peak load was recorded respectively.
2500.0
2008/5/21
2000.0 2003/12/17
Peak Load (MW)
1500.0
1000.0
500.0
0.0
11 0
12 0
13 0
14 0
15 0
16 0
17 0
18 0
19 0
20 0
21 0
22 0
23 0
0
30
30
30
30
30
30
30
30
30
30
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
0:
1:
2:
3:
4:
5:
6:
7:
8:
9:
10
Time
Figure 6.1.3-2 Daily Load Curve (2003/12/17 & 2006/5/15)
The daily load curve shows the peak which was recorded between 18:30 and 22:30 was caused due
to typical domestic demand.
Final Report
6-7
According to the survey result of Study Team, constructions of large factories which will affect the
load demand are not planed in future; therefore, the said domestic demand pattern is estimated to
be continued in future.
(3) Load Duration Curve
1) Daily Load Duration Curve
Figure 6.1.3-3 shows daily load duration curve recorded on December 17, 2003 and on May
21, 2008 on which the annual maximum peak load was recorded. The peak duration is
considered as 3 hours.
2) Annual Load Duration Curve
Figure 6.1.3-4 shows annual load duration curve in 2007. It is confirmed that the peak
duration is 3 hours.
2500.0
2008/5/21
2003/12/17
2000.0
1500.0
MW
1000.0
500.0
0.0
11 0
12 0
13 0
14 0
15 0
16 0
17 0
18 0
19 0
20 0
21 0
22 0
23 0
0
30
30
30
30
30
30
30
30
30
30
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
:3
0:
1:
2:
3:
4:
5:
6:
7:
8:
9:
10
Time
Figure 6.1.3-3 Load Duration Curve (2003/12/17 & 2005/5/21)
Final Report
6-8
2000
1800
1600
1400
1200
Load (MW)
1000
1,100 hrs/year = 3.0 hrs/day
800
600
400
200
0
1 1001 2001 3001 4001 5001 6001 7001 8001
Time (hour)
Figure 6.1.3-4 Annual Load Duration Curve in 2007
(4) Equivalent Peak Operation Hours
The peak duration in the country is estimated based on the daily and yearly load duration curve as
shown in Figure 6.1.3-3 and Figure 6.1.3-4, and estimated at 3 hours.
This duration pattern is the same as past duration curves and expected to be continued in the future.
Therefore the equivalent peak operation hours of the Victoria Hydropower Station are estimated at
3 hours.
Based on the above result, CEB and Study Team, for the Study, agreed that the existing and
expansion power plant will supply peak power, and that the equivalent peak duration for both the
existing and expansion of Victoria Hydropower Station is fixed as 3 hours.
In general, there are two examination methods for the equivalent peak duration for a storage type
hydropower project, namely that from the viewpoint of power demand and that from hydropower
planning aspect. In the Study the former is only applied. Appendix-II includes explanatory notes
why the former is applied to the examination in the Study.
Final Report
6-9
6.1.4 Scale of Expansion
(1) Maximum Intake Discharge
The maximum intake discharge is determined by the capacity of the existing intake provided for
expansion plan. In general, the velocity at the screen of the intake should be limited to less than
around 1.0 m/s. Hence, this criterion limits the maximum discharge for expansion as 140 m3/s,
which is the same discharge with the intake of existing Victoria Hydropower Station.
(2) Water Available for Expansion Plant
The available discharge for the hydropower generation for the Victoria Hydropower Station is
checked by the mass curve analysis. The data used for the mass curve analysis is a monthly
inflow data set from 1985 to 2006. The data is sum of water release to downstream at Polgolla
diversion weir given by MASL and residual flow between the Polgolla diversion weir and the
Victoria dam.
In the mass curve analysis, the discharge for hydropower generation is determined so as that the
reservoir water level is recovered to the full supply level once in several years.
The mass curve prepared for this analysis is shown in Figure 6.1.4-1.
5,000
Inflow(Full Supply Level)
Inflow + Reservoir Capacity (MOL)
4,000 Storage Vol
Σ(q -qin_ave) (MCM)
3,000
2,000
1,000
0
85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06
-1,000
Year
Figure 6.1.4-1 Mass Curve Analysis for the Victoria Hydropower
In planning of hydropower development, it is necessary to determine the firm discharge which is

the available discharge for hydropower generation for 24 hours. The firm discharge is equivalent
to the 95% dependable discharge of the outflow given in the mass curve analysis showing in
Figure 6.1.4-1. The 95% dependable discharge is calculated as 35 m3/s.
After determining the firm discharge, it is necessary to determine the maximum plant discharge.
The maximum plant discharge is the maximum discharge of hydropower plant and is determined
Final Report
6-10
by the firm discharge and peak hours of generation. The relation among the maximum plant
discharge, the firm discharge and peak hours is;
24
Qmax = Qfirm × T (m3/s)
Where,
Qmax : Maximum plant discharge (m3/s)
Qfirm : Firm discharge (m3/s)
T : Peak duration for Victoria Hydropower Station (hour(s))
As mentioned in Section 6.1.3, the peak hours appropriate for the Victoria Hydropower Station is 3
hours. In this case, the maximum plant discharge is;
24
Qmax = 35 × 3 = 280 (m3/s)
The maximum plant discharge for the existing hydropower generators is 140 m3/s. Therefore, the
3
residual of 140 m /s is the available discharge for the expansion units. This means that the same
amount of discharge used for existing power station is available for the expansion plant.
The concept of the relation of the maximum plant discharge and firm discharge is shown in Figure
6.1.4-2.
Expansion plant
Discharge (m3/s)
Existing plant
140 m3/s
280 m3/s
(Maximum
35 m3/s
140 m3/s plant discharge)
(Firm Discharge)
24 t
3 hours
Figure 6.1.4-2
Firm Discharge and Maximum Plant Discharge for Existing and Expansion Plants
(3) Number of Expansion Units for Basic Option and Downstream Option
In this comparative study on the alternative options, it is assumed that the same unit capacity as the
existing power station (70MW per unit) is used for expansion power plant. The existing power
3 3
plant use 46.7 m /s (= 140 m /s ÷ 3 units) per a turbine, because the maximum discharge is
140 m3/s with 3 units. Therefore, the maximum number of units is three, and it is assumed 3 units
of generators are installed.
In addition, it is also studied when the two generating units are installed for the basic and
downstream options. The capacity of discharge for 2 units is 93.4 m3/s.
Further study for examining the number of units (unit capacity) for the selected option is to be
carried out in the optimization of expansion plant which is on the next step of the Study.
Final Report
6-11
(4) Unit Capacity of Pumped Storage Option
The installed capacity of the pumped storage option is expected to be around 210 MW in
maximum as the same size of the existing power station. Unit capacity of the option is considered
as 210 MW (1 unit), 105 MW (2 units) and 70 MW (3 units), in the case of 210 MW.
The turbine of the pumped storage power station functions as pump during pumping up water. The
pump has to be operated in full pumping capacity. Study Team examined affect on commencement
of pumping up to the system frequency in the CEB grid.
The Load Shedding is automatically operated when the frequency deviation would be more than
1.25 Hz. Due to this criterion, 210 MW and 105 MW of unit capacity are not allowed to be
installed as equipment of the pumped storage option. Hence in this comparative study, 2 units and
3 units of 70 MW class (140 MW and 210 MW in total, respectively) are examined for the pumped
storage option.
(5) Study Scenarios
As described in the previous sections, Study Team conducted comparative study for 2-unit and
3-unit expansion with 3 hours as peak duration. The scenarios employed in the Study are shown
in Table 6.1.4-1.
Table 6.1.4-1 Study Scenarios

Basic Downstream Pumped Storage
Option Option Option
Number of units (units) 3 2 3 2 3 2
3
Maximum plant discharge (m /s) 140 93.4 140 93.4 140 93.4
6.1.5 Definition of Components of Each Option
Plan and profile of each alternative option are shown in Figure 6.1.5-1 to Figure 6.1.5-3.
(1) Tunnel Alignment
1) Required Rock Cover above Headrace Tunnel
In order to confine the internal pressure of the water conveyance tunnel, it is required to have
enough rock cover above the tunnel roof. For determining alignment of the headrace tunnel,
the tunnel alignment is laid on where ground surface elevation is EL. 450 m or higher on the
topographic maps.
2) Tunnel Length
The tunnel alignment was determined in consideration of rock coverage and elevation of sill
of the outlet and location of the powerhouse which is described in the following section. The
tunnel alignment is shown in Figure 6.1.1-1. The tunnel length of each option is estimated
as shown in Table 6.1.5-1.
Final Report
6-12
Table 6.1.5-1 Tunnel Length of Each Option

(km)
Basic Option Downstream Option Pumped Storage Option
5.8 9.1 10.9
It is noted that the pumped storage option has almost double length of the basic option, and
the downstream option has 1.6 times as long as that of the basic option.
(2) Power Discharge
The maximum plant discharge per generator is 46.7 m3/s as described in 6.1.4 (2). Therefore,
3 3
3-unit expansion plan uses 140 m /s, and 2-unit expansion plan uses 93.4 m /s.
(3) Location of the Outlets and Powerhouse
The location of the powerhouse and outlet is selected in consideration of topographical condition.
1) Basic Option
The basic option places the new powerhouse next to the existing hydropower station.
Therefore, the outlet installed adjacent to the existing tailrace. The location of the planned
powerhouse is shown in Figure 6.1.5-1.
2) Downstream Option
During the first work in Sri Lanka, Study Team visited the candidate site of CEB’s planned
downstream powerhouse. Later, Study Team checked the topographic map and geological
condition around the candidate site, and determined to place the powerhouse adjacent to it.
The location of the planned powerhouse is shown in Figure 6.1.5-2.
3) Pumped Storage Option
The location of the powerhouse for the pumped storage option is determined by checking
topographic map of the Randenigala reservoir. Study Team obtained the topographic map
which was made before the Randenigala dam was constructed. Therefore, the map shows
the information of the elevation of the ground surface within the Randenigala Reservoir.
Study Team used the topographic map and located the candidate site to install the outlet of the
pumped storage option in the Randenigala reservoir. The location of the planned
powerhouse is shown in Figure 6.1.5-3.
(4) Sill Elevation of Outlet
The sill elevation is the elevation of the foundation of the tailrace of powerhouse, and is
determined by the elevation of tail water level. For the Victoria hydropower expansion plant, the
water level of the Randenigala reservoir affects the tailrace water level of new powerhouse. The
operation rule of the Randenigala reservoir is an important factor to determine the tailrace water
Final Report
6-13
level of the new powerhouse. The definition of water levels of the Randenigala reservoir is
shown in Table 6.1.5-2.
Table 6.1.5-2 Randenigala Reservoir Water Level

Elevation Storage
Water level
(m) (MCM)
Maximum Flood Level 236.2 n.a.
Design Flood level 234.5 n.a.
Retention Level (FSL) 232.0 860
Drawdown Level 220.0 590
Exceptional Drawdown Level 203.3 295
Source: "Randenigala Project, Mahaweli Ganga Development, Randenigala and Rantembe Headworks and Power
Stations, Part D: Design Report" Joint Venture Randenigala, Salzgitter Consult GMBH, Salzgitter, Agrar-Und
Hydrotechnik GMBH, Essen, Electrowatt Engineering Serices Ltd. Zuerich, November 1981
Study Team collected information of the Randenigala reservoir water level at Randenigala
Hydropower Station as follows;
¾ After the Rantambe reservoir was constructed, the drawdown level at EL. 220 m of the
Randenigala reservoir had no role on operational aspect, and the exceptional drawdown level
has been functioned as minimum operation level.
¾ However, generation equipment of the Randenigala Hydropower Station has an actual lower
limit of the reservoir water level of EL. 209 m.
¾ In the usual reservoir operation, water level of the Randenigala reservoir is lowered up to EL.
207 m by using the bottom outlet.
Based on the above information, the minimum water level of the Randenigala reservoir for the
downstream option is considered as EL. 209 m which is minimum operating level for the
Randenigala hydropower station. For the pumped storage option, the minimum water level is the
lowest recorded water level in order to enable pumping-up operation at the low water level.
Therefore the minimum water level of the pumped storage option is considered as EL. 207 m. In
the case of the basic option, the minimum water level of the reservoir does not affect the outlet
layout, because the outlet for expansion is installed approximate same elevation as the existing
outlet of the Victoria Hydropower Station.
In consideration of the information collected from the Randenigala hydropower station and the
aforesaid minimum water level of the Randenigala reservoir, the sill elevation of each option is
suggested as below.
1) Basic Option
Sill elevation is same as that of the existing powerhouse, i.e. EL 230 m.
Final Report
6-14
2) Downstream Option
To gain the gross head, the sill elevation is set as low as possible. The lowest operation
water level of the Randenigala reservoir is EL 209 m. About 4 m of draft head is required
for hydropower mechanics. Therefore EL 205 m is sill elevation of the outlet.
3) Pumped Storage Option
Sill elevation should be set to below double size of outlet diameter from the lowest water level
of the Randenigala reservoir, EL. 207 m. The diameter of outlet will be about 6 m. The sill
elevation becomes around EL. 195 m.
(5) Hydraulic Head
1) Gross Head
Gross head is a difference of elevation between the normal intake water level and tailrace
water level. The gross head of each alternative option is defined as below.
a) Basic Option
Normal water level:

(EL. 438 m – EL. 370 m) × 2/3 + 370 m ≈ EL. 415 m
Tailrace water level is EL. 232 m.
Gross head : EL.415 m – EL. 232 m = 183 m
EL.438 m
1/3he1
he1
EL. 370 m
Gross head
powerhouse
Figure 6.1.5-4 Gross Head of Basic Option
b) Downstream Option
Normal tail water level for the Randenigala reservoir:

(EL. 232 m – EL. 209 m) × 1/2 + EL. 209 m ≈ EL. 221 m
Gross head : EL.415 m – EL.221 m = 194 m
Final Report
6-15
EL. 438 m
1/3he1
he1
EL. 370 m
Gross head
EL. 232 m
powerhouse
1/2he2
he2
EL.209 m
Figure 6.1.5-5 Gross Head of Downstream Option
c) Pumped Storage Option
Normal tail water level of the Randenigala reservoir:

(EL. 232 m – EL. 207 m) × 2/3 + EL. 207 m ≈ EL. 224 m
Gross head : EL. 415 m – EL. 224 m = 191 m
EL. 438 m
1/3he1
he1
EL. 370 m Gross head
EL. 232 m
1/3he2
he2
EL. 207 m
powerhouse
Figure 6.1.5-6 Gross Head of Pumped Storage Option
2) Effective Head
The effective head is used for obtaining the hydropower generation output, and the power
output is expressed by the following equation.
P [kW] = g × ε × Q × He
Where,
g : gravity acceleration [m/s2]
ε : generation efficiency
Q : discharge [m3/s]
He : effective head [m]
The effective head is obtained by deducting head loss from the gross head. Head loss
indicates a head is lost while water flows down from intake to outlet and is incurred by the
Final Report
6-16
friction and various flow disturbances such as intake, branches of waterway, etc. Head loss,
however, is mainly caused by the friction in the case of long waterway. The head loss is
generally expressed by the function of discharge. The head loss of each option is estimated
as shown in the Table 6.1.5-3.
Table 6.1.5-3 Head Loss of Each Option

# of units Equation Maximum head loss
-4 2
Basic Option 3 6.76 × 10 Q 13.2 m
2 1.81 × 10-3 Q2 15.8 m
Downstream Option 3 9.73 × 10-4 Q2 19.1 m
2 2.61 × 10-3 Q2 22.8 m
Pumped Storage Option 3 1.32 × 10-3 Q2 25.8 m
2 3.65 × 10-3 Q2 31.8 m
Note: Q = 140 m3/s for 3 units and 93.7 m3/s for 2 units
In this case, the effective head of each option is as shown in Table 6.1.5-4:
Table 6.1.5-4 Effective Head of Each Option

# of units Gross Head Head loss Effective Head
(m) (m) (m)
Basic Option 3 13.2 170
183
2 15.8 167
Downstream Option 3 19.1 175
194
2 22.8 171
Pumped Storage Option 3 25.8 165
191
2 31.8 159
Table 6.1.5-4 shows that effective heads of pumped storage option gives the lowest due to the
longest tunnel, and downstream option gives the largest in value.
Final Report
6-17
Basic Option: General Plan and Profile
Figure 6.1.5-1
Final Report
6-18
Downstream Option: General Plan and Profile
Figure 6.1.5-2
Final Report
6-19
Pumped Storage Option: General Plan and Profile
Figure 6.1.5-3
Final Report
6-20

Feasibility Study For Expansion of Victoria Hydropower Station

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Feasibility Study For Expansion of Victoria Hydropower Station

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CHAPTER 5

METEOROLOGY AND HYDROLOGY

Chapter 5 Meteorology and Hydrology

Figure 5.1-1 Isohyet in Monsoon Season .....................................................................5-2

Chapter 5 Meteorology and Hydrology

(2) Climate in the Mahaweli River Basin

Source: The National Atlas of Sri Lanka

Figure 5.1-1 Isohyet in Monsoon Season

Figure 5.1-2 General Plan of the Mahaweli River Basin

5.2 Meteorology and Discharge Measurement in the Project Area

(1) Rainfall Measurement

Source: Department of Meteorology, Sri Lanka

There is a meteorological measurement station, the Kundasale meteorological station, located

Monthly Temperature at Kundasale

Temperature (Celsius degree)

Source: Department of Meteorology, Sri Lanka

Figure 5.2-1 Temperature Measured at Kundasale Meteorological Station

(2) Discharge Measurement

Polgolla diversion tunnel

Figure 5.2-2 Location of Polgolla Diversion Weir

Polgolla Diversion Release Record

Figure 5.2-3 Polgolla Diversion Release Record

Source: Department of Meteorology, Sri Lanka

Figure 5.2-4 Location Map of Rainfall Gauging Station

Monthly Average Rainfall at KANDAKETIYA Monthly Average Rainfall at KOBONELLA (M283)

400 Rainfall (mm) 400

Source: Department of Meteorology, Sri Lanka

Monthly Average Rainfall at KUNDASALE Monthly Average Rainfall at MAHABERIYATENNA

Source: Department of Meteorology, Sri Lanka

5.3 Water Resources Development of the Mahaweli River

(1) Water Resources Plan of the Mahaweli River

(2) Dam Safety and Water Resources Planning Project (DSWRPP)

- Component 1: Dam Safety and Operational Efficiency (US$52 million)

National Water CEB

: Participant Authorities for DSWRPP

Source: Project Management Unit, DSWRPP

Figure 5.3-1 Related Organization of DSWRPP

- Selection of consultant will finish after two months

MAHAWELI GANGA Legend

(122 MW) Angamedilla (System G) Minneriya Giritale

5.4 Discharge at Project Site

To the Sudu river

1,071 MCM/year 461 MCM / year

Figure 5.4-1 Water Balance of Victoria and Randenigala System

Inflow and spill release

Source: Victoria Dam Operation Office, MASL

Table 5.4-1 Inflow to Victoria Reservoir

1985 72 30 31 31 117 789 464 168 45 227 347 133 2454

Source: Victoria Dam Operation Office, MASL

Figure 5.5-1 Bottom Outlet at Victoria Dam

Table 5.5-1 Spill Release Record at Bottom Outlet and Spillway

Chapter 6 Optimization of the Development Plan

Table 6.1.3-1 Maximum Demand ..................................................................................6-6

Figure 6.1.1-1 General Plan of Alternative Options........................................................6-3

Chapter 6 Optimization of the Development Plan

6.1 Comparison Study of Alternative Options

a) To install expansion powerhouse further downstream of the existing powerhouse to increase

6.1.1 Alternative Options

(1) Basic Option

(2) Downstream Option

(3) Pumped Storage Option

General plan of the alternative options are shown in Figure 6.1.1-1.

6.1.2 Comparison Method